Polls Open: Voting Times By State

Bill Taylor

-Nov 5, 2025

Are you ready to cast your ballot but unsure when the polls open? You're not alone! Knowing the exact time polls open in your state is crucial for ensuring your voice is heard. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about voting times across the United States, helping you plan your visit to the polls with confidence. We'll break down the opening and closing times, explain any variations, and provide helpful tips to make your voting experience smooth and efficient. Whether you're a first-time voter or a seasoned participant, this article ensures you have all the essential information to exercise your right to vote.

When Do Polls Open? General Overview

The opening time for polls varies by state and sometimes even by county or precinct. Generally, most polling places open early in the morning, giving voters ample time to cast their ballots before work or other commitments. Most states have voting hours that extend into the evening to accommodate different schedules. The specific hours are usually set by state election laws and can be found on your state's election website or your local county election office. — A River Runs Through It: A Timeless Tale Of Family, Fishing, And Forgiveness

Factors Influencing Poll Opening Times

Several factors can influence the exact time polls open:

State Law: Each state has its own set of laws governing election procedures, including voting hours.
Local Regulations: Counties and local election boards may have some flexibility within the state's guidelines.
Historical Trends: In some cases, voting hours may be adjusted based on previous voter turnout and logistical considerations.

Polling Hours by State: A Detailed Breakdown

To help you plan, here's a detailed overview of when polls typically open and close in each state. Please note that these times can sometimes vary, so always confirm with your local election office. — Alabama Vs. Florida State: A College Football Showdown

Alabama

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Alaska

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM depending on the location.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Alaska Time.

Arizona

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM, depending on the county.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Mountain Time.

Arkansas

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:30 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:30 PM Central Time.

California

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Pacific Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Pacific Time.

Colorado

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Mountain Time.

Connecticut

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Delaware

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Florida

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

Georgia

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

Hawaii

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Hawaii-Aleutian Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Hawaii-Aleutian Time.

Idaho

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 8:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Mountain Time.

Illinois

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Indiana

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time and 6:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 6:00 PM Eastern Time and 7:00 PM Central Time.

Iowa

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Central Time.

Kansas

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Kentucky

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time and 6:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 6:00 PM Eastern Time and 6:00 PM Central Time.

Louisiana

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Central Time.

Maine

Opening Time: Polls typically open at times varying from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Maryland

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Massachusetts

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Michigan

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Minnesota

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Central Time.

Mississippi

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Missouri

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Montana

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Mountain Time.

Nebraska

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 8:00 AM Central Time and 7:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Central Time and 8:00 PM Mountain Time.

Nevada

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Pacific Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Pacific Time.

New Hampshire

Opening Time: Polls typically open at times varying from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

New Jersey

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

New Mexico

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Mountain Time.

New York

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 9:00 PM Eastern Time.

North Carolina

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:30 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.

North Dakota

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time and 8:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time and 8:00 PM Mountain Time.

Ohio

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:30 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.

Oklahoma

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Oregon

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Pacific Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Pacific Time.

Pennsylvania

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

Rhode Island

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Eastern Time.

South Carolina

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

South Dakota

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Mountain Time and 8:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Mountain Time and 8:00 PM Central Time.

Tennessee

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time and 7:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time and 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

Texas

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Central Time.

Utah

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Mountain Time.

Vermont

Opening Time: Polls typically open at times varying from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

Virginia

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

Washington

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 8:00 AM Pacific Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Pacific Time.

West Virginia

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 6:30 AM Eastern Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.

Wisconsin

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Central Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 8:00 PM Central Time.

Wyoming

Opening Time: Polls typically open at 7:00 AM Mountain Time.
Closing Time: Polls typically close at 7:00 PM Mountain Time.

Additional Considerations for Voting Times

Beyond the standard opening and closing times, several other factors can affect your voting experience:

Early Voting: Many states offer early voting options, allowing you to cast your ballot before Election Day. Check your local election office for early voting dates and times.
Absentee Voting: If you can't make it to the polls on Election Day, you might be eligible to vote by mail. Deadlines for requesting and returning absentee ballots vary by state, so plan accordingly.
Line Wait Times: Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours. Arriving early or during off-peak hours can help you avoid long lines.
ID Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary identification to vote. Requirements vary by state, so familiarize yourself with your state's regulations.

Where to Find Official Voting Times and Information

The most reliable sources for accurate voting information are: — Size 1 Football: Your Ultimate Guide

Your State's Election Website: Each state has an official website with detailed information about voting, including polling locations, hours, and registration deadlines.
Your Local County Election Office: Your county election office is the best source for information specific to your area, such as polling locations and any local changes to voting times.
Vote.org: This non-partisan website provides comprehensive voting information, including registration deadlines, polling locations, and election dates. (Source: Vote.org)
The U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC): The EAC offers resources and information on federal elections. (Source: EAC.gov)

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about poll opening times:

Q: What happens if I'm in line when the polls close? *A: In most states, if you are in line when the polls close, you are allowed to vote.
Q: Can poll hours change? *A: Yes, poll hours can change due to various factors, such as emergencies or court orders. Always double-check the official times before heading to the polls.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the voting times? *A: Yes, certain circumstances, such as extended voting hours due to a natural disaster or technical issues, can occur. Your local election office will provide information about any exceptions.
Q: What time zone are the poll times based on? *A: Poll times are based on the local time zone of the polling location.
Q: How can I find my polling place? *A: You can find your polling place by visiting your state's election website or contacting your local county election office.
Q: What if I have questions on Election Day? *A: Contact your local election office or consult a poll worker for any questions or assistance you may need.

Conclusion: Make Your Voice Heard

Knowing when the polls open is just the first step in participating in the democratic process. By understanding the voting hours in your state and being prepared with the necessary information, you can ensure a smooth and efficient voting experience. Always double-check the specific times with your local election office and make a plan to cast your ballot. Your vote matters, so make sure you make it count!